Over one year has passed since Opening Doors was released. Since that time there has been progress in implementing strategic plans to prevent and end homelessness around the country in states and communities and in the federal government. While it is too soon to fully measure the impact of Opening Doors, evidence is emerging that more effective support from and collaboration with the federal government and private and non-profit partners have helped states and communities as they implement their plans to end homelessness.
"Over the last year, we have had unprecedented collaboration from federal agencies-with one another, and with state and local governments and nonprofits-in our efforts to implement Opening Doors," said USICH Chair and Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis. "We are laying the groundwork for future successes through better collaboration, better data collection, better use of mainstream resources, and engaging states and local communities in the Plan's goals and strategies."
The bold and measurable goals in Opening Doors are meant to catalyze efforts to prevent and end homelessness. For the first time, the federal government is measuring progress against clear numerical targets. While it is too early to track the success of Opening Doors, the 2010 data that is included in this update provides a baseline going forward. These measures are critical to ensuring the federal government and its partners take accountable action toward ending homelessness.
The federal government cannot accomplish the difficult job of ending homelessness alone so USICH last week launched Opening Doors Across America, an initiative to actively engage states and local governments to align their work with the goals of Opening Doors.
The 2011 Annual Update covers in detail the progress made around many of the Opening Doors goals, objectives and strategies. Particularly noteworthy progress has been made in six categories:
- Breaking down silos
- Better data collection analysis and reporting
- Adoption of proven tools and effective practices
- Better use of targeted resources
- Improved access to mainstream resources
- Increased engagement with states and communities
- Read the 2011 Update to learn more
The Appendix to the Annual Update includes information on federal programs that provide assistance, along with information on USICH and member agencies' activities and accomplishments in the last year.
- Read the Appendix
